James (Jim) William Head Jr was born in Athens, TX on July 28, 1944 to James William Head and Clarine (McBride) Head. He was healed from his suffering and made his heavenly journey home on June 2, 2024 in Greenville, TX, at the age of 79.
Upon graduation from Rockdale High School in 1962 he served our country in the USMC for 4 years. After an honorable discharge, he moved to the Dallas area where he met his wife, Peggy Marie (Lawson) Head. They were married on June 24, 1967.
Jim was a Vietnam-era veteran who served his country honorably with over 2 years of his service in foreign and/or sea service. He received the following awards and commendations: Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Rifle Expert Badge, and Pistol Marksmanship Badge. Once he returned home, he continued serving his country as a Cub Scout leader, Little League baseball & basketball coach, and Royal Ambassador Leader. Jim was also a founding member of the Princeton Texas Masonic Lodge 1436, and a member of Shriner’s International. Jim enjoyed 25 years of employment with Otis Engineering / Halliburton in Carrollton. Upon retirement, he was a self-employed electrician for 15 years and then served as Hunt County Health Inspector for 10 years from which he again retired.
His family (especially his grandchildren) were his pride and joy as evidenced by the tribute his granddaughter, Kaitlyn, wrote about him:
“Papaw. Old Man. Jim Head.
Papaw, a man of many names, left an indelible mark on our lives. Old Man, your constant teasing will be dearly missed, but we find solace in the unwavering support you showed us. You were always seeking a way to get in trouble with Grandma, always saying or doing something you weren’t supposed to. You were ever-present, be it at our games or shows, and your pride in us was palpable. You treated us like your most treasured trophy, showcasing us to everyone you knew. Your love for us was evident in every action, from taking us on wagon rides to the gas station to proudly giving us a tour of your new home. You were the funniest, most lovable, and accomplished man. You never failed to put a smile on our faces or make our laughter burst throughout the house.
I am so glad Oakie had the chance to know and love you, and I will forever be grateful for that. Thank you, Papaw, for being not only the best papaw we could’ve asked for but also our best friend. Your legacy of love and kindness will stay with us forever”
Jim leaves behind his wife of 57 years Peggy Head of Celeste. His children, (son) James Head & wife, Jennie of Greenville, (daughter) Cynthia Cook & husband, Mike of Farmersville. His grandchildren, Kaitlyn Cook, Michael Cook, Elizabeth Bookout, Jacey
Roehm-Zdansky and Jimmie Roehm. His great-grandchildren, Oaklynn Clark, Kate Yarbrough, and Kyler Yarbrough. His siblings Mary Knight and David Head, of Rockdale, as well as numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, and other family members that Jim cherished.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his mother and father-in-law, 1 sister, 1 brother, and 1 grandchild.
A private memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Jim
